Preventative measures maintain Airmen's health Published May 30, 2008 By 23rd Medical Group MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- In preparation for Father's Day, the 23rd Medical Group reminds Moody dads that taking care of themselves now can lead to long-term health benefits that will help them celebrate for years to come. According to the American Heart Association, more than 450,000 men die each year from heart disease. The American Lung Society states that about 89,000 pass away from lung cancer and the American Cancer Society says that more than 30,000 men die from prostate cancer and 27,000 depart this life from colon/rectal cancer. Many of these deaths are premature, unnecessary and could be prevented, according to Moody health officials. One in three American men will develop some form of heart disease by the time they are 60 years old. Heart disease can lead to heart attack, stroke or congestive heart failure. To reduce the risk of heart disease Airman can do the following: -Reduce high blood pressure: Normal blood pressure runs at about 120/80 or lower. 140/90 is considered high and needs to be brought under control. Lifestyle factors such as decreasing sodium intake to 1500 milligrams/day and exercising can assist in decreasing high blood pressure. -Stop smoking: Smoking accelerates aging and doubles your risk of heart disease. Smokers who have heart attacks are more likely to die suddenly than non-smokers. -Lose excess weight: Waist circumference should be less than 35 inches for a female and less than 40 inches for a male to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease. Increased inner abdominal fat is tied to increased fat around internal organs, therefore increasing the risk of heart disease. -Look closely at cholesterol reports: High-density lipoprotein or 'good cholesterol' should be greater than 50 and low-density lipoprotein or 'bad cholesterol' should be less than 130. HDL carries the LDL out of the blood stream by decreasing cholesterol deposits that build up on the walls of arteries. -Add regular, brisk exercise: By adding 30-60 minutes of aerobic exercise most days of the week, Airmen can reduce the risk of heart attack. -Check for and control diabetes: Type 2 diabetes tends to appear in middle age, overweight people. To keep check and prevent for diabetes, make sure blood glucose levels are between 70-99. -Control stress: Anger and hostility can be especially unhealthy. Regular, brisk exercise is one way to reduce tension, frustration, anxiety and worries. The Health and Wellness Center at Freedom I Fitness Center has free information on prostate cancer, colon/rectal cancer and lung cancer. The HAWC also offers a variety of classes to assist in decreasing your risk factors of disease. Moody officials also encourage Airmen to continually seek the advice of their medical providers if they have specific concerns. For more information, call 257-4292.